I used to be a dedicated soccer player for almost 10 years. However, I wanted to build more muscle so that I could physically surpass myself. Little did I know that I would like it so much (the training) that I would begin to take it more seriously, and read many books about bodybuilding and nutrition. A fellow bodybuilder and I learned all the basics of training and nutrition so we could both ultimately improve our physiques. The significant physical progress I made led me to compete at my first natural bodybuilding show 2 years later. I then became more and more dedicated to this wonderful sport.

Why do you love bodybuilding?

Because I believe bodybuilding is a mental and physical art form in which you become the master of your own creation. It challenges me both mentally and physically. My love for bodybuilding continuously drives me to improve my mind and body in order to build the strongest mental strength I possibly can, and shape my body the way I desire within the limits of my natural genetics. Bodybuilding also helps me to maintain my focus so I don't stray away from my aspirations.

Training

What is your training philosophy?

I believe the mind is the ignition to everything that we’ve ever dreamed of being in our life, and the body is the vehicle that will drive us to its destination. The more difficult the path, the stronger the mind and the body must be in order to overcome the obstacles that people will inevitably be faced with to succeed. The mind and the body must therefore work in unison but still respect the natural limits of each element.

My training isn’t different on or off season. However, I’m always striving to gain muscle mass on my upper body in order to balance out my look with my imposing legs, which are the result of numerous years playing soccer. That being said, when I’m preparing for a show, a guest pose or a competition, only my diet plan will change to obtain the look I’m searching for.

Advice For Others

What are the 3 best tips you'd give to someone thinking about competing in natural bodybuilding?

Believe in yourself.

Don’t let people discourage you into thinking that you can’t achieve a world class physique naturally.

Be motivated, dedicated and disciplined in your workouts and diet plan so that you can direct your energy toward achieving your personal fitness objectives.

What is your best advice for looking your best on competition day?

Do it only for yourself - you have to compete against yourself and be better than your last competition. You must seek to be your best and not only the best on competition day since surpassing yourself is more gratifying than beating other competitors.

How do you stay motivated? What advice would you give to someone who's having trouble staying on track?

Visualizing yourself on stage is motivating and so in seeing you progress day after day. Stay on track so that you can see your progress and be motivated by it.

Future Plans

What shows have you got coming up, where can we see you compete?

For now, I have plans of opening a fitness center this year so my energy is directed toward this objective. Moreover, my family is growing as my 2nd child is supposed to be born in May 2010. So there is a lot happening for me in my personal life. However, a second participation at the Musclemania Pro World Championship 2010 show in Las Vegas would be of great interest to me.

What would you like to achieve in your natural bodybuilding career?

I would like to be recognized as a healthy individual in every area possible. Also, I would like to promote the sport and its natural way so that I can inspire more people in believing that it is possible to do it naturally and healthily. Finally, I am humbly able to say I won the Musclemania Pro World Championship in Las Vegas in 2009. It was a big accomplishment for me and the victory will stay in my mind for a very long time.

Favorite Competitors/Idols

Who are your favorite bodybuilders and idols?

I don't have a preferred bodybuilder because I believe that all dedicated natural bodybuilders are inspirations to all fitness enthusiasts.

How Can People Contact You?

How can people contact you?

People can contact me through Facebook.

For information about booking for modeling assignments or appearances, please contact me at bodyinfluence@hotmail.com until my website officially is up and running. It should be active very shortly.